My interaction with Bryn began in the outpatient surgery unit, where I was preparing for a Dilation and Curettage (D&C) procedure following a devastating recent miscarriage. I tried my best to hide it, but I was nervous, scared, and felt very high levels of emotion regarding the procedure and its circumstances. About 5 minutes after my husband and I arrived, Bryn entered the waiting room to bring me back to the pre-op area - her smile was contagious and gentle demeanor instantly eased any apprehension I had.

During my brief time spent with Bryn prior to my procedure, her clinical expertise was evident in every aspect of her care. As she meticulously prepared to place my IV (which I was extremely nervous about) her steady hands and reassurance exuded confidence. She was calming and explained every step. Despite my slight fear of needles, Bryn approached the task with such precision and skill that I barely felt a thing despite her warnings of a big poke. In a matter of moments, after the IV was in place, I began to feel uneasy and soon passed out briefly - at no fault to Bryn. During this brief moment, she not only was “cool as a cucumber” as my husband said, but she also was extremely reassuring to him during that moment of uncertainty. This said, Bryn's ability to exude calmness in the midst of uncertainty to my husband and myself was nothing short of admirable. With a reassuring touch and soothing words, she transformed the sterile environment into an area of comfort.

Her presence alone was a source of solace, providing me with the strength and courage to face the upcoming procedure. However, it was not just Bryn's technical proficiency that left a lasting impression on us — it was her compassion and empathy that truly set her apart. Throughout the entire process of getting me prepped for the procedure, she remained by my side, offered words of encouragement and support, and ensured I was as comfortable as possible. She listened attentively, spent time to get to know me and my husband, answered any questions we had, and ensured that I felt ready for anything. By the time my brief interaction with Bryn had ended that morning, I truly felt like a friend, rather than just another one of many patients I’d assume she had cared for that shift.

In conclusion, Bryn is more than just a nurse. Her kindness and dedication to her patients, coupled with her exceptional clinical skills and compassionate nature, make her a true asset to the nursing profession at Ascension Via Christi of Manhattan. It is with gratitude and admiration that I nominate Bryn for the DAISY Award, as I believe she is more than deserving. In my experience with Bryn, I am confident that she exemplifies all the values which the award represents, and she most definitely embodies the spirit of nursing excellence and compassionate care.